06 Feb A Special Game Day Visit Brings Football, Books, and Bingo to Ronald McDonald House Families

Posted on Feb 06 by
Photograph collage showing a social event with three scenes: two people posing at a table with a football program, a decorated room with seated guests and buffet table, and a group of seven people standing and smiling indoors. The setting features festive decorations like streamers and balloons, indicating a celebratory gathering with food and socializing.

As excitement builds for Super Bowl Sunday, families staying at Ronald McDonald House Bay Area were reminded that the spirit of football goes far beyond the field, it’s about community and showing up for one another. 

Author and lifelong Ronald McDonald House advocate Marnie Schneider, joined co-author of Football Freddie and Fumble the Dog: Gameday in San Francisco, Cat Watters, and former Super Bowl Champion and Children’s Book Author Ricky Watters, for a special evening with families at our Stanford House. Together, they brought energy to one of our favorite traditions, Bingo night, while sharing books, football stories, and meaningful moments of encouragement, giving families a break from long hospital stays. 

Photograph of a bingo game event with three people standing near a bingo cart holding cards and a microphone, while a large bingo board with numbered squares is displayed on a stand behind them. The setting includes festive decorations with green and orange streamers, white chairs, and a wall adorned with white paper butterflies and a sunburst design.
Photograph of a group of people gathered in a decorated room with colorful streamers and a large pillar wrapped in pink ribbons, engaged in activities around a table with open cardboard boxes.
Photograph of a decorated indoor space set up for a football-themed party with a long table covered in a green football field tablecloth holding snacks, napkins, and drink pouches. People stand and converse in the background near hanging decorations including paper doves, hearts, and colorful streamers, creating a festive atmosphere.

For many families staying at the House, time away from home can mean missing familiar traditions, cheering for a favorite team, gathering with loved ones on game day, or simply feeling the excitement of a shared moment. Thanks to those in our community like Marnie, Ricky, and Cat, those experiences come to life here, creating a sense of normalcy and joy when families need it most. 

Marnie’s visit carried especially deep meaning. Inspired by her grandfather Leonard Tose, former Philadelphia Eagles owner and one of the founders of the first Ronald McDonald House, she continues a legacy that blends sports, storytelling, and giving back. Through her bestselling children’s books and her dedication to families, she brings the spirit of play and connection to communities across the country. 

As we prepare for our upcoming Super Bowl Watch Party and family activities, moments like these remind us that Ronald McDonald House Bay Area is more than a place to stay, it’s a caring community where families can experience a little piece of home, even while facing a medical journey. 

Thank you to Marnie, Ricky, and Cat for sharing their time and heart with our families, and to the broader community that continues to make these meaningful moments possible!